From Conference Room to Real Connection: Turning Work Acquaintances into Actual Friends
We all have them — the friendly conference buddy, the person we always run into at industry events, or the colleague we’ve exchanged a few LinkedIn DMs with but never quite gotten past the surface with.
But what if that professional acquaintance could become an actual friend?
In today’s world, where professional and personal lines are more fluid than ever, some of our most rewarding friendships can actually start in a networking space. You just have to know how (and when) to explore that potential.
Start Where You Already Connect
You’ve already got a shared context — work, industry events, or even mutual contacts — so use that as a starting point.
Invite them to:
Attend a conference together
Grab a quick virtual coffee before a webinar
Catch up after a panel or workshop
Join you for a happy hour you’re already planning to go to
It’s about creating low-pressure moments for connection. These mini-meetups help you move from “We’ve emailed a few times” to “We actually know each other.”
Talk Shop... But Also Share a Little You
Naturally, you’ll talk about work. But don’t be afraid to sprinkle in your personal interests. Mention that new hiking trail you explored, your obsession with trying new ramen spots, or your weekend ceramics class.
Why? Because hobbies are where personal connection lives. When someone lights up and says, “Wait, you love that too?” — that’s your green light.
You’re not just making conversation. You’re gently exploring where your lives overlap outside of the 9-to-5.
Extend a Dual Invitation
Here’s the real friendship strategy: offer a choice.
Let’s say you had a great chat at a networking event. Follow up with a message like:
“Hey, I really enjoyed our convo. I’m heading to that [industry mixer] next week if you’re around. Also — I’ve been wanting to check out this new happy hour spot nearby if you’re up for something more casual sometime!”
This approach does two things:
Keeps things low-stakes and professional or social.
Gives them the freedom to steer the direction of your budding connection.
Read the Clues — and Respect the Direction
If they pick the conference or suggest another panel to attend together, they’re probably leaning toward keeping it professional — and that’s okay!
But if they say yes to lunch, happy hour, or some other non-work hang, that’s your subtle sign: they’re open to something more than just business.
That’s your cue to invest a little more. Text them when you see something that reminds you of your convo. Invite them into spaces that don’t require name tags or business cards. You’re building something rooted in shared experience and mutual interest.
Real Friendship Takes Time — Even in a Work Context
Not every work acquaintance will become your next great friend, but you’ll never know unless you test the waters. The key is intention, curiosity, and a little courage.
So the next time you connect with someone professionally and think, “I’d actually like to know them better,” don’t let the moment pass.
Friendship isn’t always found at brunch. Sometimes it’s hiding in a post-panel coffee chat or a Slack message that says, “Hey — wanna go to this thing together?”
Let that be your start.
